Understanding Why I Feel This Way: The ‘What To Do’ Guides For Kids

A little while ago I was collecting together a list of books for kids who worry and I came across What To Do When I Worry Too Much. I found it a fabulous resource for working through with my (then) eight year old who was showing signs of anxiety in the face of some personal and school yard stress. I was so impressed that I went on to order some other titles in the series and I must say that I am just as impressed with each of the books in the collection that I have read so far.

Published by the American Psychological Association, the books introduce cognitive behavioural therapy based strategies in response to a range of common childhood feelings and emotions – anger, worry, jealousy, shyness, perfectionism and negativity to name a few. Using child-appropriate language, they balance storytelling (including examples children can easily relate to) with age-appropriate information and strategies for coping or changing behaviour.

They are also interactive, including questions and space for children to record their own personal experiences. Finally, they include useful information for parents as well. Suitable for children aged 7-12 years, working through these books is useful for both child and parent. Children at the younger end of the age range will appreciate working through a book with a parent, while older children will have no problem reading the books independently – though I do think they offer an excellent opportunities for parents to have valuable conversations with older children too.

Each of the books currently included in the series are listed below. Each is linked to more information and reviews for those who would like to know more about an individual title (these are affiliate links).

Christie Burnett is an early childhood teacher, presenter, writer and the editor of Childhood 101. More importantly, she is a Mum who believes wholeheartedly in the value of children learning through play, the importance of quality early education, and the togetherness of family.